Summary
- Release Year: 2002
- Genres: Fighting, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Sport
- Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2
- Developers: Capcom Production Studio 3, Genki
- Publishers: Crave Entertainment
UFC: Throwdown (2002): A Revolutionary Mixed Martial Arts Game
Released in 2002, UFC: Throwdown was a groundbreaking mixed martial arts (MMA) game that set the standard for future fighting games. Developed by Yuke’s and published by THQ, UFC: Throwdown was the first game to realistically simulate the fast-paced and brutal world of MMA.
Gameplay
UFC: Throwdown places players in the shoes of real-world UFC fighters, each with their own unique fighting styles and moves. Players can choose from a roster of over 25 fighters, including legends like Randy Couture, Tito Ortiz, and Chuck Liddell.
The game’s combat system is incredibly deep and realistic, allowing players to string together a variety of punches, kicks, grapples, and takedowns. Players can also perform combos, but these combos are limited by the fighter’s stamina and the opponent’s defensive abilities.
UFC: Throwdown also features a submission system that allows players to force their opponents to tap out. Submissions can be performed from a variety of positions, and players must carefully manage their stamina and position in order to successfully execute a submission.
Graphics and Presentation
For its time, UFC: Throwdown’s graphics were impressive. The character models were well-detailed and animated, and the environments were realistic and immersive. The game also featured authentic fighter entrances and voiceovers, adding to the overall atmosphere.
Reception
UFC: Throwdown was a critical and commercial success. The game received praise for its realistic gameplay, deep combat system, and impressive graphics. It was also a hit with fans of the UFC, who appreciated the game’s authenticity and attention to detail.
Legacy
UFC: Throwdown is widely considered to be one of the greatest MMA games ever made. It set the standard for future fighting games and helped to popularize MMA with a wider audience. The game’s legacy continues to this day, and it remains a favorite among fans of the genre.
Detailed Gameplay Breakdown
Striking
UFC: Throwdown features a wide variety of striking options, including punches, kicks, elbows, and knees. Players can throw single strikes or string together combos. The game’s striking system is realistic and requires players to carefully time their attacks and defend against their opponent’s strikes.
Grappling
Grappling is a key part of MMA, and UFC: Throwdown features a deep and realistic grappling system. Players can grapple with their opponents from a variety of positions, including the clinch, the ground, and the mount. Grappling allows players to control their opponents, take them down, and submit them.
Submissions
Submissions are the ultimate goal in MMA, and UFC: Throwdown features a variety of submission holds. Players can submit their opponents from a variety of positions, including the mount, the back, and the guard. Submissions require players to carefully manage their stamina and position in order to successfully execute a submission.
Career Mode
UFC: Throwdown features a career mode that allows players to create their own fighter and lead them to UFC glory. In career mode, players can train their fighter, fight in tournaments, and earn money to purchase new equipment and abilities. Career mode is a great way to experience all that UFC: Throwdown has to offer.
Online Multiplayer
UFC: Throwdown features online multiplayer for up to two players. Online multiplayer allows players to compete against each other from around the world. Online multiplayer is a great way to test your skills and see how you stack up against other players.
Conclusion
UFC: Throwdown is a classic MMA game that still holds up today. The game’s realistic gameplay, deep combat system, and impressive graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned MMA veteran or a newcomer to the sport, UFC: Throwdown is sure to provide you with hours of entertainment.
Review Score
8/10
